5 Best Barbecue Joints in Garland, Texas to Try

Garland sits right in the heart of Dallas’s barbecue belt—a city fueled by Texas tradition, but proud of its diverse flavors and independent spirit.

Here, pitmasters take their craft seriously, using hardwood smoke, time-worn family recipes, and plenty of Lone Star attitude.

Whether you’re after brisket that melts at the touch or inventive tacos piled with smoked meats, Garland’s BBQ is bold, big-hearted, and absolutely filling.

Intrinsic Smokehouse & Brewery

This bustling downtown favorite is both a craft brewery and a barbecue haven.

Expect house-smoked brisket sliced to order, hefty pork ribs, juicy turkey, and housemade sausages—all with a deep, classic Texas bark.

Sides range from elote-inspired corn salad to poblano mac and cheese, and their own small-batch beers (like Blood Orange Wit or IPA) pair flawlessly with the smoke.

The open-air patio, mural walls, and community vibe make it an easy hangout for families, date nights, or regulars.

Meshack’s Bar-B-Que Shack

Don’t be fooled by the minimal, no-frills exterior—Meshack’s draws barbecue pilgrims from all over the metroplex.

They’re famous for slow-smoking over pecan wood, producing brisket with an inky smoke ring and ribs that slide off the bone.

There are no tables (it’s strictly to-go), but that doesn’t stop long lines around lunch.

Order a slab, some spicy sausage links, and a side of their classic baked beans, and you’ll understand the hype.

BBQ King

A long-standing staple with a loyal local following, BBQ King is loved for its savory brisket sandwiches, tender pork steaks, and smoky-sweet rib racks.

The friendly staff and down-to-earth vibe have made it the go-to for family dinners and hungry workers on lunch break.

They also serve up classic sides like creamy potato salad and “Texas toast”—and don’t skip the rich, tangy house sauce that regulars swear makes everything better.

Dickey’s Barbecue Pit (Garland Original Location)

While Dickey’s has gone national, its early Garland outpost retains a bit of old-school, local charm.

Here, you’ll find their famous slow-cooked brisket, Polish sausage, and a variety of smoke-kissed meats, served up cafeteria-style.

The jalapeño cheddar kielbasa, pit beans, and buttery rolls are especially good bets. It’s easy, consistent, and very family-friendly.

Big D Barbecue

A bit of a hidden gem, Big D is all about quality, consistency, and no-nonsense Texas barbecue.

Their brisket is smoky and fork-tender, the ribs are meaty, and the pulled pork is packed with juicy flavor.

They also nail classic Southern sides: try the tangy coleslaw or cowboy beans. The cozy, inviting space makes it a favorite among Garland locals for casual feasts and hearty takeout.